CHAPTER XVII.

The seasons at Antigua--Heavy rains--Long droughts--The water-merchant--A fortunate shower--Drought in 1837--Desolate appearance of the country--Famishing cattle--Definition of "_fine rains_"--Anecdote--Heavy shower--Joy--Earthquakes--1835 --Meteors--Dressing for the ball--The alarm--The ball-room-- Hurricanes--Devastations